"The Bridges Renewal Program is designed to give councils the help they need to upgrade or replace ageing bridges to support local economies, jobs and lifestyles.

"The new Gutchy Creek Bridge will make a huge difference to the local community and wider region by giving heavy vehicles a more efficient route, saving time and money.”

Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O'Brien will today join Fraser Coast Regional Council Mayor Chris Loft for the official opening of the Gutchy Creek Bridge.

"Not only will the new bridge support freight and transport of goods throughout the Fraser Coast, but it also provides a much needed safety upgrade for an aging piece of critical infrastructure,” Mr O'Brien said.

"The new bridge will help to ensure Gundiah remains connected during times of flood and completely change the way heavy vehicles operate in the area by saving them a 78km detour and around $1200 per load. It will also enable the movement of emergency service vehicles in the area, avoiding long diversions when time is critical.”

Cr Loft said improving the wellbeing of school students was a high priority, and the new bridge would provide safer passage to and from the local school.

"It is also a major route for farmers to move their produce as well as a vital tourism link between the Fraser Coast and the Burnett and Darling Downs,” Cr Loft said.

The Gutchy Creek Bridge is a jointly funded project with the Australian Government contributing $1.143 million under the Bridges Renewal Program and matched funding from the Fraser Coast Council.